Iran on Monday officially started the construction of a hydropower plant in the Central Asian republic of Tajikistan. Tajikistani President Emomali Rakhmonov, speaking at a ceremony attended by the Iranian speaker of parliament, said the construction of the Sangtuda-2 hydropower plant continued centuries-old cooperation and historical ties between the two countries, mentioning that \"Iran was among the first countries to recognize the independence of Tajikistan.\" The president also said, \"This is not Iran\'s last contribution to the Tajik energy sector.\" The hydropower plant, which will be completed in about 3 ½ years, is expected to generate a billion kilowatt/hours a year, RIA Novosti reported. Rakhmonov said it will supply electricity not only to Tajikistan but also to neighboring countries. Under the terms of the agreement, Iran will also receive electricity from the plant via a high-voltage transmission line that will pass through Afghanistan. Iran will keep the profits from the plant for 12 1/2 years, at which time it will become Tajikistan\'s property. (UPI)